The UN envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, has engaged in discussions with both Houthi representatives and Yemen’s internationally recognised government to address the current escalation of conflict. This renewed violence, primarily occurring on Yemen’s western coast, has resulted in hundreds of deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands since it reignited. Grundberg highlighted the urgency of exploring possible pathways to avoid further escalation during an interview with The Associated Press in Cairo.

On the weekend, he met in Muscat with Mohammed Abdul-Salam, the chief negotiator for the Houthis. This dialogue was aimed at assessing options for de-escalation. Additionally, Grundberg held discussions in Riyadh with regional powers and the Yemeni government, emphasising the role of Saudi Arabia in the crisis, noting that it has become a primary target of recent Houthi offensives.

The conflict in Yemen has its roots in 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthis overthrew the government in Sanaa, forcing it into exile in Saudi Arabia. In 2015, Saudi Arabia initiated its military campaign with a multinational coalition against the Houthis. Grundberg remarked that regional instability and the involvement of countries such as Iran have further complicated the conflict’s progression.

Recent Developments in the Houthi Offensive

In the early days of October, with alleged assistance from Iranian military experts, the Houthis have made significant territorial advances along the Red Sea coast, including the seizure of the strategic city of Mokha and several islands. This development allows them greater control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial maritime passage for global trade.

The current offensive represents the Houthis’ most significant territorial gain in several years and marks the collapse of a ceasefire that had largely prevailed throughout 2022. As part of their intensified campaign, the Houthis have also increased cross-border assaults on Saudi Arabia, targeting oil infrastructure and disrupting tanker traffic in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

Reports indicate that approximately 12 per cent of global trade passes through this vital route. According to United Nations data, recent clashes with Saudi-aligned forces have resulted in at least 838 fatalities and over 3,640 injuries. The UN migration agency has also reported that the resurgence of violence has triggered the displacement of over 145,000 individuals within Yemen, with more than 3,000 fleeing to Djibouti as a result of the hostilities.

Focused Approach to Conflict Resolution

Grundberg has indicated that the current situation poses greater challenges compared to earlier phases of the Yemeni civil war, noting the shifting battleground to coastal areas that threaten important maritime routes. He expressed concern over recent attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, stating that this development should be prioritised by the UN Security Council.

The Yemen conflict is increasingly intertwined with broader regional disputes, particularly following the Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023 and the subsequent U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran. The Yemen situation reflects a proxy war dynamic between Saudi Arabia and Iran, complicated by the United States’ previous intelligence support to Saudi forces, which was curtailed amid international criticism of civilian casualties in Saudi airstrikes.

Moving forward, Grundberg emphasised the need to disentangle the Yemen conflict from other regional warfare to prompt a resolution. He stressed the importance of negotiations, stating that it is vital to address each conflict effectively and selectively. His overarching message is one of seeking essential dialogues that can navigate the increasingly challenging landscape of the ongoing crisis in Yemen.

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